These Ground Beef Recipes Always Win the Weeknight

Weeknights can be busy which makes quick and reliable dinner options a must. Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that cooks fast and works well in all kinds of dishes from comforting classics to flavorful new favorites. It’s a great way to get dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

These recipes make the most of ground beef with simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients. You’ll find meals that are hearty enough to please everyone while still being quick enough for your busiest evenings. They’re practical for real life but still full of flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family these ground beef ideas can fit right into your weekly routine. They’re flexible enough to mix and match with sides you already have and still taste great as leftovers the next day.

Slow Cooker Maid Rites

This set-it-and-forget-it version of the classic loose meat sandwich makes busy days easier. Ground beef simmers for hours in a flavorful broth, soaking up all that savory goodness. Serve it piled high on warm buns with your favorite pickles for a nostalgic meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Maid Rites

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

A rich, creamy sauce brings ground beef and tender cauliflower rice together in one pan. It’s hearty yet lighter than traditional rice dishes. Perfect for weeknights when you want comfort without a lot of cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Taco Pasta Salad

This dish brings together pasta, seasoned beef, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing in a refreshing mix. It works well for picnics, potlucks, or easy lunches. Serve it chilled for the best blend of textures and flavors.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Layers of tender broccoli and well-seasoned beef are baked together under a cheesy topping. It’s an easy way to work more vegetables into a family-friendly meal. Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli Casserole

Enchilada Meatballs

All the bold flavors of enchiladas come together in bite-sized form. These meatballs simmer in a rich sauce, making them perfect for pairing with rice or tortillas. They also make a fun twist for party appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Meatballs

25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

Juicy beef patties are topped with crispy bacon and creamy avocado for a quick yet hearty dinner. Everything comes together fast, making it perfect for weeknights. Serve with a simple side salad or sweet potato fries.
Get the Recipe: 25-Minute Bacon-Avocado Ground Beef Burger

Taco Rice Skillet

This one-pan meal combines seasoned ground beef, rice, and veggies for a flavorful, filling dinner. It’s quick to make and great for busy evenings. Top it with shredded cheese or fresh salsa for extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

A generous layer of melted cheese finishes this hearty taco-inspired skillet. The mix of beef, beans, and spices makes it both comforting and easy to prepare. Add tortilla chips on the side for some crunch.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Ground Beef Taco Skillet

Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

Sweet and savory flavors meet in these tender meatballs cooked in a pineapple-infused sauce. The Instant Pot keeps things quick and hands-off. They’re great over rice or as a fun party snack.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Hawaiian Meatballs

Ginger Ground Beef Stir

Fresh ginger adds a warm kick to this quick stir fry. Paired with vegetables and ground beef, it’s a balanced meal you can make in minutes. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete dish.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Ground Beef Stir

Tater Tot Taco Casserole

Golden tater tots top a hearty layer of taco-seasoned beef and cheese. It’s a fun, kid-friendly option that’s still loved by adults. Bake until bubbly and serve hot from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Taco Casserole

Cheeseburger Skillet

This recipe packs all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a simple skillet meal. Ground beef, onions, and cheese meld together for an easy dinner. Serve with pickles and ketchup for that classic touch.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Skillet

Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

The Instant Pot makes quick work of this saucy, flavorful sandwich filling. Ground beef cooks with onions, peppers, and a tangy-sweet sauce. Spoon it onto fresh buns for an easy comfort meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Korean Ground Beef

Savory, slightly sweet seasoning transforms ground beef into a flavorful main dish. Serve it with steamed rice and green onions for a simple dinner. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but still full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Korean Ground Beef

Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

All the flavors of stuffed zucchini without the extra prep work. Ground beef, tomato sauce, and tender zucchini bake together for a warm, hearty dish. It’s a great way to use up garden vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole

Ground Beef and Broccoli

This quick stir fry brings together crisp broccoli and savory beef in a flavorful sauce. It’s simple, healthy, and ready in minutes. Serve it with rice for an easy dinner that works any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Broccoli

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Tender beef, cheesy tortellini, and peppers cook slowly in a creamy sauce. The result is a rich, filling dinner with minimal effort. Just set it in the morning and enjoy by evening.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Cabbage cooks down into a sweet, tender base for seasoned ground beef. It’s a quick skillet meal that’s budget-friendly and hearty. Perfect on its own or served over rice.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Hamburger Potato Casserole

Layers of sliced potatoes, ground beef, and cheese bake into a hearty family dinner. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up on a cool evening. Serve with a side salad for a complete plate.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Potato Casserole

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

This simple skillet combines seasoned beef, rice, and vegetables in one pan. It’s easy to customize with your favorite spices or add-ins. Great for a weeknight when you need dinner fast.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner

Taco Stuffed Peppers

Bell peppers are filled with seasoned beef, rice, and cheese, then baked until tender. They’re colorful, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep. Top with fresh salsa or sour cream before serving.
Get the Recipe: Taco Stuffed Peppers